Carbon Monoxide Safety for Homeowners in Saskatoon

Carbon monoxide safety for homeowners is something every Saskatoon resident should take seriously. At Boss Plumbing, we know how dangerous even a small carbon monoxide leak can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping you understand the risks, recognize the symptoms, and take proactive steps to keep your home and family safe.

Let’s break down what carbon monoxide is, how it enters your home, and what you can do to prevent exposure.

What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Should Saskatoon Homeowners Care?

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas created when fuel burns. Common household appliances like gas furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and stoves all produce it. If these systems aren’t properly maintained or vented, they can leak carbon monoxide into your home, often without any warning.

And here’s the real danger: you can’t detect CO without a proper alarm. According to the Mayo Clinic, once it’s in your home, it replaces the oxygen in your blood, starving your brain and heart of what they need to function. Over time, this can lead to permanent damage or even worse death.

That’s why carbon monoxide safety for homeowners in Saskatoon is more than just important, it’s essential.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Because carbon monoxide poisoning mimics the flu, you may not realize what’s happening until it’s too late. Be alert for these signs:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion or disorientation
• Blurred vision
• Loss of consciousness

 
If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect carbon monoxide exposure, don’t wait. Get everyone outside immediately and call 911.

You can find additional information from the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about carbon monoxide symptoms.

How Carbon Monoxide Gets Into Your Home

You might be surprised at how many ways carbon monoxide can sneak into your space. At Boss Plumbing, we’ve seen it all. Some of the most common causes include:

• Poorly maintained furnaces or boilers
• Blocked chimney or flue vents
• Faulty water heaters
• Improperly installed gas appliances
• Running vehicles in attached garages
• Fireplaces with inadequate venting

 
With regular inspections and proper upkeep, these risks are manageable. Prevention is always easier and safer than dealing with an emergency.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home

To protect your home and your loved ones, take these essential steps:

Install CO Detectors

You need carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area. Choose CSA- or UL-certified models.

Pro tip:

• Test them monthly
• Replace batteries twice a year
• Replace the entire unit every 5–7 years

 
For more details, check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) recommendations.

Schedule Annual Inspections

Book yearly maintenance with Boss Plumbing. Our certified Saskatoon technicians inspect and service:

• Furnaces
• Boilers
• Water heaters
• Gas fireplaces
• Dryer vents

 
We make sure everything runs safely and vents properly. Regular inspections are the best defense against carbon monoxide buildup.

Keep Vents Clear

Especially during Saskatoon’s icy winters, it’s critical to check that exterior vents aren’t blocked by snow, leaves, nests, or ice. Our team always checks for airflow and proper ventilation when we visit your home.

Never Run Engines Indoors

Even with the garage door open, it’s not safe to idle a vehicle or run a generator indoors. Carbon monoxide can quickly build up and seep into your living space.